Andrew Jackson Sowell facts for kids

Andrew Jackson Sowell (born June 27, 1815 – died January 4, 1883) was a brave soldier and farmer in the 1800s. He fought in the Texas Revolution and survived the famous Siege of the Alamo. He also served during the time of the Republic of Texas, the Mexican–American War, and the American Civil War. Sowell was a Texas Ranger and a friend of the famous scout, Kit Carson.

Early Life in Texas

Andrew Jackson Sowell was born in Tennessee in 1815. His family moved a lot, eventually settling in Dewitt Colony, Texas in 1829. Andrew, like his father, became a farmer. His family were among the first American settlers in the area. They were also the first to successfully grow corn near Walnut Springs.

Fighting for Texas Freedom

In 1835, Sowell joined the fight for Texas's independence from Mexico.

The "Come and Take It" Cannon

He was part of the Battle of Gonzales. This was when Mexican troops tried to take back a cannon from the town. The Texans famously refused, saying "Come and Take It!" This event was the first battle of the Texas Revolution.

Battles for San Antonio

Sowell then fought in the Battle of Concepción and the Grass Fight. He also helped the Texans try to take San Antonio. After a long fight, the Texans drove the Mexican soldiers out of San Antonio in December. This was known as the Siege of Béxar.

Surviving the Alamo

In February 1836, Sowell volunteered to serve at the Siege of the Alamo. While the Mexican army was getting close, he and another soldier were sent out. Their job was to buy cattle and supplies for the Alamo defenders.

When they tried to return, the Alamo was surrounded by the Mexican army. They could not get back inside. Sowell then helped Texas families escape from the fighting. This event was called the Runaway Scrape. After making sure the civilians were safe, he joined Sam Houston's army. He arrived just as the Battle of San Jacinto was starting.

Serving the Republic

After Texas won its independence, Sowell continued to serve. He became a Texas Ranger for the new Republic of Texas.

Ranger Battles

He fought in several important battles as a Ranger. These included the Council House Fight in 1840. He also fought in the Battle of Plum Creek later that same year. In 1842, he was part of the Battle of Salado Creek (1842). He served alongside other famous Rangers like John Coffee Hays and Benjamin McCulloch.

Later Years and Legacy

In 1838, Andrew J. Sowell was one of 33 people who signed the charter for Seguin, Texas. This was one of the first towns created after Texas became independent.

Sowell also fought in the Mexican–American War. Later, he served in the Confederate Army during the American Civil War. He was known as a great scout and was a close friend of Kit Carson.

A Unique Honor

In 1841, Sowell's name was put on the first Alamo monument. At first, people thought he had died at the Alamo. Sowell later said he was the only person to survive the Alamo siege and still see his name listed among those who died there.

Andrew Jackson Sowell passed away in Seguin, Texas, on January 4, 1883. He is buried in the Rogers-Mofield Cemetery. In 1957, the State of Texas placed a historical marker in his honor.